Automatic Sampler Needle Rinsing Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic samplers for liquid chromatography face challenges in effectively rinsing needles to prevent cross-contamination and achieve high precision, as traditional rinsing methods either compromise throughput or fail to completely remove residual sample liquids.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of two independent rinsing sections, one with a reserved rinsing liquid and another with liquid exchange during operation, allows for selective rinsing methods based on priority, either emphasizing speed or precision, and the ability to switch between different rinsing liquids depending on the sample type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the needle is soaked in rinsing liquid to rinse the needle, then the rinsing operation is finished in a short time, but a sample liquid diluted by the rinsing liquid may adhere to the needle and be left on the needle, resulting in a risk that this residue may cause an error at the next measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The rinsing process is divided into two distinct sections: a first rinsing section that performs rapid rinsing when throughput is prioritized, and a second rinsing section that performs thorough rinsing with liquid exchange when measurement precision is prioritized. This segmentation allows the system to select the appropriate rinsing mode based on measurement requirements, resolving the contradiction between speed and precision.
2Loss of time
If the needle is rinsed by soaking in rinsing liquid, then the rinsing operation is quick, but the rinsing performance is insufficient to completely remove residual sample liquids
Solution Approach 1:
The rinsing system dynamically adapts its operation mode based on measurement requirements. The control unit can switch between the first rinsing section (quick soak) and the second rinsing section (with liquid exchange) to provide appropriate rinsing performance for different measurement scenarios, balancing time consumption and rinsing effectiveness.
3Measurement precision
If the needle is rinsed with high precision by enhancing the rinsing performance, then cross contamination is reduced, but the throughput is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rinsing system is segmented into two functional sections that can be selectively activated. The first rinsing section provides rapid rinsing for high-throughput applications, while the second rinsing section provides thorough rinsing with liquid exchange for high-precision measurements. This segmentation enables the system to optimize for either precision or throughput based on measurement requirements.
4Ease of operation
If the same rinsing liquid is used for all measurements, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot effectively remove different types of residual samples
Solution Approach 1:
The second rinsing section is designed to accept and exchange different types of rinsing liquids based on sample characteristics. The control unit can select appropriate rinsing liquids from multiple options to effectively remove different types of residual samples, while the automated liquid exchange mechanism maintains operational simplicity. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to various sample types without compromising ease of use.
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic sampler comprises a first rinsing bath for rinsing the needle by soaking the needle in a rinsing liquid, in which the rinsing liquid is reserved, and a second rinsing bath for rinsing the needle by soaking the needle in a rinsing liquid, in which the rinsing liquid is exchanged during the rinsing operation. The first rinsing bath and the second rinsing bath are selectively employed for the purpose of use. That is, when a high rinsing power is required, such as when cross contamination is prevented, the second rinsing bath having higher rinsing power is employed. On the other hand, when the throughput is emphasized, the first rinsing bath is employed to rinse the needle in a shorter time.